POSSIBLE PITFALLS |
SOLUTIONS |
1.
|
Going over budget. |
1.
|
Declare your budget to be at least 15% less than you can actually afford.
|
2.
|
Feeling shy and uncomfortable because your budget is small. |
2.
|
However small your budget, still declare it to be 15% less than you can afford. Don’t feel pressured into going over. Stick to your plan.
|
3.
|
Feeling more like a victim than a client. |
3.
|
Choose a contractor who believes that the client is king – or queen!
|
4.
|
Not planning for unexpected costs such as finding dry rot or termites. |
4.
|
That is what the extra 15% is there to cover. Assume you will need it.
|
5.
|
Assuming that your plumbing, electrical circuits, subflooring etc. are adequate to support your remodel. |
5.
|
Check with a specialist before going ahead, particularly if it is a big project. The fundamental structures may have to be upgraded. Better to find out before you embark on your project, not once you are committed.
|
6.
|
Assuming that you will be able to easily and frequently communicate with your contractor. |
6.
|
2-way communication is vital. Make sure your contractor listens to you, as much as you listen to him. Make sure you feel comfortable with your contractor during the selection process.
|
7.
|
Letting your contractor act as a designer as well. |
7.
|
Designing and contracting are two different jobs. Hire a designer who can monitor the contractor’s work.
|
8.
|
Underestimating the time it takes to choose colors, finishes, appliances etc. |
8.
|
Unless you are willing to spend your days, weekends and evenings looking at tiles and comparing faucets, hire a designer who will make the process smoother and quicker.
|
9.
|
Assuming that your contractor will not have conflicts with his subcontractors that can affect your timeline. |
9.
|
Make sure your contract covers this and has a penalty clause if the project is not finished on time.
|
10.
|
Receiving lower quality than you were promised. |
10.
|
Obtain a detailed breakdown on the scope of work of the products and brands to be used.
|
11.
|
Having difficulty getting the final touch ups finished off properly. |
11.
|
Hold back the last payment until the final walk through and you are totally satisfied.
|
12.
|
Assuming your project will finish on time and planning an event accordingly. |
12.
|
Always assume your project will take 50% longer. You will be far less stressed. Of course don’t say this to your contractor! If it finishes on time, it is a bonus.
|